*This
rating is dated August 20, 2008, and will be updated as new
products become available.
Best
Buy
$500-$1,000
Smooth 5.45 Treadmill
For
a walking treadmill you can't get any better machine in the $1,000 price range.
Yes you will find treadmills that are cheaper and may claim to have more features,
but overall the Smooth 5.45 is an excellent value when it is selling at $999 (Includes
shipping). Be aware that Smooth changes their sales prices weekly. If it is selling
for more than $999 wait a week.
The
Smooth 5.45 has a 20" wide belt, which really makes a difference over an
18" wide belt. It has one of the better warranties at this price and overall
has a good service track record. If you are considering jogging you may want to
move up to either their Smooth 6.25 or the Sole F80 Treadmill. Click here for
latest prices on the Smooth Fitness 5.45 treadmill
.
Best
Buy
$1,000
- $2,000
Sole F80 Treadmill
The
Sole F80 received the "Best Buy" for several reasons. First, the Sole
folding treadmills are extremely durable. In fact they are used by the Hilton
Hotels for in-room workouts. You're getting a residential treadmill that endures
commercial use. Another feature, that is also a statement on the quality, is the
industry leading warranty. You get 30 years on the motor, 5 year parts and 2 year
service. There is no other treadmill that matches the Sole warranty.
The
F80 has a 20" x 55" running surface, weighs a solid 250 lbs., comes
with oversized 2.75" rollers, and include wireless heart rate control. The
total package is an excellent value. Click
here for latest prices on the Sole
F80 treadmill.
Best
Buy
$2,000
- $3,000
Sole F85 Treadmill
We
believe that Sole offers such excellent value that we also gave the F85 the "Best
Buy" for the $2,000-$3,000 price range. This model is actually priced at
the very bottom of the range at $2,000 (Includes Shipping). In addition to the
outstanding warranty, you get a powerful 3.5 hp motor, oversized rollers, premium
console and a 60" long running surface.
At
60" you have a machine that can accommodate tall individuals. Also the extra
length is great for serious athletes who want to sprints and interval training.
The features, warranty and company reputation makes this a "Best Buy."
Any comparable treadmill will cost at the very least $2,500. Click
here for latest prices on the Sole
F85 treadmill.
Best Buy
$3,000 - $4,000
Landice L7 Pro Sports Trainer
Landice only builds treadmills, and they have been doing it for over 35 years. Their treadmills are reknown for providing commercial grade for the home. That is why they back their products with a lifetime warranty (1-year service). The Pro Sports Trainer is one of their best values, receiving numerous best buy reviews. Sold through fitness specialty stores. Click here for more details on the Landice L7 Pro Sports Trainer.
Most Innovative for 2008
NordicTrack Apex 8500
There are a number of features that make the NordicTrack Apex 8500 treadmill one of the most innovative for 2007. They include the 7" flat screen TV, a rockin sound system, iFit technology (audio workout programs), and the Reflex Deck. The deck is the most forgiving in the industry. You also get a 3.5 hp motor and a extra long 60" treadbelt. The total package makes this an impressive treadmill. Click here for the latest prices on the